Ducati owners speak up

[Rough Edge racing]

 I've been looking at later Model Ducati's for sale. The various Monsters are interesting, bigger bore models at reasonable prices. It seems they are all fuel injected? In all seriousness are the electrics reliable and are parts like ECM's and injectors available for less than silly money ? I don't want to buy a 4 grand bike and have it sit because of an expensive hard to find part... Thanks

[Old Jock]

Got a 1098S, I don't do a great deal of miles on it. Had it since new

Its been great, sure you know already Ducatis are in a higher state of tune but you should be fine with Monsters and the like I know a couple of Monsters that have Guzzi type mileages.

Amazing engine on the 1098 lots of grunt low down too and the handling is superb.

From what I know it tends to be more model related regarding particular faults, electrics are fine except for reg recs that seem to be a weak point & can be fixed by replacing with a Yam, or Triumph unit.

Ask about belts, the belts need replacing every 2 years and I would not push my luck by going a lot longer (if its a belt drive engine and I think most of the larger capacity engines are, with the exception of the Panty Girdle). That's probably about the biggest regular service item.

Dunno about the monster but at around 7k miles the valve gear needs shimming on the 1098 and that can be expensive.

Overall providing you accept that they will probably need torn down sooner than a Guzzi and are a good deal more complex in the engine department, they are incredible fun

If you have a particular model in mind I post on the Duc Uk forum which is a good place and I can ask about what owners think and any particular weaknesses

John

[Rough Edge racing]

 Thanks, I doubt I would ride it more than 1000 miles a year... I do all my own work so the labor cost is free..

[guzzista]

As exciting as Desmoquattros (4V) Ducatis are to ride, the SOHC bikes are much more suited for everyday riding. The DS1000 and 1100 have been so far the most reliable and mileage crunching( if that can be said of  Ducatis ). Valve adjustments and belt changes are easier and ( a lot more ) user friendly , especially for a seasoned wrench like you, RER. My DS 1000 GT1000  has yet to need any reshimming for the valves at 12600. The most complex tool for belts replacement is a 5mm Allen wrench used to gap belt tension ( something I have also used  since other TBelt Ducatis : Cagiva Alazzurra, 750 Sport and 900 SS). OJ has a  good point on the rectifier/ regulator, but  aftermarket units are available. Plastic tank models ( Sportclassic, Monster and Hypermotard?) should be carefully assessed as expansion problems can mean $$$$$ even if Ducati has or can replace tanks under warranty ( Class action lawsuit may still be current) . As Guzzi parts are not necessarily always cheap, parts cost should not be a problem, at least on Desmodue models, as well as the fact that Ducati is not owned by Piaggio, a plus all by itself.

[Turin]

I don't think you could go wrong with any pre-2008 Ducati Monster ( before they beat em w/ the ugly stick). Best Duck I've ridden was the ST3. Great motor with that one.

[Guido Valvole]

I've heard of a 160k-mile Monster. Via Ducati friends, don't know the details but they can go for Guzzi mileage. Two-valve SOHC engine is a lot simpler than anything newer. Ducati value & price seems inversely proportional to comfort and practicality so older Monsters can be a good deal.
cr

[drums4money]

I'll be out all day on my 2006 S2r 800 Monster.  I love that bike.  Just turned 20,000 miles.  No issues to speak of nor any maintenance surprises.  Belts are easy, valve checks are not difficult either. Had mine apart last fall before putting it up for winter to replace in-tank fuel filter, air filter, & check valves.  There's been no shim change necessary last two inspections.  Make sure you get the red security key if you buy used.  Otherwise one could have to replace dash & ecu if something exceptional wereto go wrong. 

I wouldn't hesitate to buy an early to md 2000's air cooled Ducati if the bike were clean, had all keys  & manual, and exhibited obvious care from the owner. 

[Rusnak_322]

I had a 2000 Monster 750 and a 2001 Monster S4 ( with the 916cc motor)

I currently have a 2007 Monster S4Rs (999cc motor) and my wife has a 2007 1098. We each have close to 24k mikes on our bikes and other then scheduled maintenance, the only issue is that the batteries seem to last 2 years max even when on the trickle charger all the time. I did get a pin hole leak in the radiator one time, but got it fixed for about $100.

If I could have only 1 bike and cost was not an issue, I couldn't think of a bike I would take over the S4Rs. We take them to southern Ohio and West Virgina and do 600 mile weekends with no issues.

[Travlr]

I've been looking at later Model Ducati's for sale. The various Monsters are interesting, bigger bore models at reasonable prices. It seems they are all fuel injected? In all seriousness are the electrics reliable and are parts like ECM's and injectors available for less than silly money ? I don't want to buy a 4 grand bike and have it sit because of an expensive hard to find part... Thanks

1999 I believe was the first year for FI. 

>are the electrics reliable

Yes.

> and are parts like ECM's and injectors available for less than silly money ?

Ducs tend to be more expensive to maintain than other brands.
As my buddy said when he spent $2K for the 16K service:  "If you can't pay the freight, don't buy the bike."

One thing in buying used is to find a bike that has been well maintained  Kids buy them, can't afford to maintain them,
then sell them.  Used Monsters are especially bad for this.  That $4K Monster could up costing $6K.

M

[Lcarlson]

My (new) 2012 Diavel needed a new rear master cylinder within a couple of months, fixed under warranty. However, it went south again (way too much travel at the pedal), and remained that way. Info on Diavel forum was that this is a common problem. DK if this is a Diavel-specific issue.

[pyoungbl]

It is not unusual to find a Ducati for sale with about 12K miles on it.  That is where the major service used to happen.  Here's the picture: Dude bought the bike 3-6 years ago and really did not ride it much.  He slapped some bling on the bike (pipe, carbon fiber, etc) but, other than just riding it did not do much more.  Now the bike is worth about 1/2 what he paid for it and when he takes it in for the 12K service the shop mentions something like $1,200 or so when all is said and done.  That's maybe 30% of what the bike is worth...and after the service the bike is not worth a dime more.  SOLD!

I had a ST2, Multi 1000DS, and 620 Monster.  Did all my own work.  The bikes really were dependable, just required lots of TLC.  Stay away from anything with a plastic tank.  They WILL swell and deform to the point where you cannot put them back on the frame.  BTDT X 2.  You can get a shim kit so valve adjustment is easier.  Belts are about $90 each, you can find them cheaper from someone like Chris Kelly.  L.T. Snyder sells parts and will share lots of experience (www.desmotimes.com).  The dry clutch models make a racket and the baskets never lasted me more than 15K miles.  I'd stay away from the 3 valve or 4 valve heads.  Yes, they make more power.  They are much harder to work on...in fact, it might be easier to check those valves by taking the heads off and doing the job at the kitchen table.

Peter Y.

[LowRyter]

Seems the 916 series gets frozen in value at about $3k-$6k range.  Just depends on doing the valve adjustment and related maintenance for about $2500-3000. 

The local Duc specialist removes the engine to go all the maintenance. 

Kinda explains why these bikes just can't quite obtain collectors status despite being a timeless design

[timonbik]

I had a 2006 Multistrada 620.  Had it 6 years and put 60,000km on it.  Fantastic Bike.  Only 1 breakdown the whole time I owned it.  The clutch master cylinder was sticking and not releasing the clutch.  Dealer changed it under warranty.  My only complaint is the cost of valve adjustments and timing belts.   Cost me $500 to $600 each visit but as the valves rarely needed adjustment after the initial service, I extended the visits to in excess of 20,000km.  I found it easy to work on, changing tires, brake pads, chain, sprockets. etc.  Didn't tackle the valves as some special tools are required.  Unfortunately a car took me and the bike out.  Insurance wrote the bike off as there was so much plastic damage but saw the bike for sale a year later, all stripped down.  Note as per many Euro bikes, dealer network can be sketchy but lots of aftermarket stuff on Ebay and Amazon.
Cheers, Tim

[rss29]

I have a Hyperstrada, which has the same engine as the 821 Monster. That's probably newer than you're looking at, though. I think they were only in the '14 and newer Monster. I was apprehensive about Ducati reliability, as the bike has a ton of electronics- digital dash, ride by wire, 8 level traction control, ride modes, etc. There was a recall on the throttle and the dealer replaced the control assembly. Other than that, it has been completely reliable. It is a pain to work on, as there is a ton of stuff crammed in a tiny package. You have to take the whole bike apart to get to the air filter. The major maintenance interval has increased to 15K miles on the newer models. You can do it yourself- the special tools and shim kits can be rented from a couple of online retailers. It's a big job though.

I love the bike. A 400 pound bike with 110 hp is a blast to ride. You can barely keep the front wheel on the ground. If you open up the exhaust the sound of the Desmo twin is intoxicating. I also get better gas mileage on it than the 1TB V7, despite it having more displacement and a ton more power. 

[Nic in Western NYS]

I'm on my third ST. All have been great bikes.  No major failures except for a very early VIN '98 ST2 that had a couple of problems that got sorted out by '99.  My '04 ST4sABS is pretty spot on perfect for me though it is a handful at slow speeds.  If you're doing the work, sign on to http://www.ducati.ms/forums/40-sport-touring/ for the advice from a helpful group of riders, not unlike this group.

[Arizona Wayne]

OK, since all you Ducatisti ride chain drive bikes, what do you do to maintain the chains(if anything)?

[rss29]

OK, since all you Ducatisti ride chain drive bikes, what do you do to maintain the chains(if anything)?

These modern chains are really good.  They hardly ever need adjustment and you can easily get 10K plus miles out of one. I lube every 500 miles or so. If I've been in a lot of gravel I'll clean it first. I'm currently using Motorex lube. It goes on white and doesn't seem to fling as much crap around as some other brands.

[Rough Edge racing]

 There's a 2002 750 Monster , $3800, for sale near me.The adult owner says it's has 16,000 miles and was recently serviced by Ducati. I suspect the high cost of service is because of what needs to be removed to get at what needs servicing. It's just a mechanical puzzle and keeps a guy busy during the winter.   Thanks for all the info...

[Nic in Western NYS]

OK, since all you Ducatisti ride chain drive bikes, what do you do to maintain the chains(if anything)?

Buy a high quality X-ring chain.  Put the bike on a stand, put in neutral, engine off, and spray WD-40 directly onto the chain with your left hand as you spin the rear tire with your right hand and then as the wheel/chain is moving, cup a clump of paper towels around and under the moving chain to remove gunk and catch excess WD-40.  Repeat every 200 miles.
Feels odd talking about chain maintenance on WG.

[Perazzimx14]

I am partial to the air cooled carbed 900cc super sports or to a lesser degree the Monster's with the same.

Cheap reliable and fun. No EFi for me

[pyoungbl]

OK, since all you Ducatisti ride chain drive bikes, what do you do to maintain the chains(if anything)?

Chain drive will benefit from all the lube you can give it.  In a perfect world the chain would run in an enclosed oil bath.  Such a chain should last for the life of the bike....but is not practical.  On my last few chain drive bikes (ST2, Multistrada, G650GS) I used an automatic oiler (Pro Oiler) that supplied an oil flow to the chain based on distance traveled.  I used ATF (automatic transmission fluid) and found that 20-25K was pretty normal for chain/sprocket life.  4 oz of ATF took me across country (about 3.6K) so we're not talking about a lot of oil, just a steady supply to fling off any grit while still lubricating.  There are other oilers out there.  The bottom line is that the more you lube the chain the longer it will last...and that goes for O ring or X ring too.

[Dukedesmo]

I've got 2 Ducatis; a 916 (4v) and a 900 (2v) Monster.

The 916 is a race-replica bike that is uncomfortable and works best at licence-unfriendly speeds, whereas the Monster is a more practical road bike.

The 2 valve engines are a simple and reliable unit that don't make big headline horsepower but have a strong mid-range. Maintenance is more than most bikes mainly due to cambelts and valve adjustments, neither of which are difficult for someone with mechanical abilities. Fit upgraded MBP valve collets and significantly reduce the need for valve adjustments, otherwise fairly reliable and most parts are easily (if not cheaply) available.

I do all my own servicing and have valve shim kits for both so other than cambelts find them no more costly to maintain than any other bike.

My M900 is a carb'd model, they went to fuel injection around '99-'01 depending on the model, the injected models are generally more reliable, requiring less attention.

Mine has a big bore (944cc) kit with high-comp pistons, gas-flowed heads and split single Keihin carbs (instead of banked twin Mikuni) and puts out a huge slug of low-down/mid-range torque which makes it great fun to ride at not silly speeds, it actually out grunts my 916 up to 6,000rpm, despite being 30hp down at the top end, meaning it is as fast (and feels faster) up to around 80mph - highly recommended.       

[Kev m]

We bought our 696 new, only have 8k miles on it but they've been flawless.

Did valves and belts in 4 years. The belts were FINE.

The belt manufacturer (Gates?) says they're 10 year belts but won't warrant them longer than the Ducati maintenance schedule.

[Old Jock]

On the chain maintenance, I have a DID X ring

The recommendations from DID is NOT to use anything to clean the chain other than Parrafin & over on the Ducati site I frequent that's also the consensus.

Do not use brushes only a rag

The worry is damaging the X ring seals, once they go the chain is severely compromised

I use a Motul grease lube but there are lots of different types out there & its more a preference thing

I think modern chains are better than shafts, easier to maintain and less costly and due to the fact they need regular (but very simple) maintenance its more likely to get done. Unlike UJs which are usually left until they are close to destruction. That said I can live with both its not a deal breaker for me

[OregonAl]

Just picked up a '05 ST3 for a song, identical to the one I regretfully sold a few years ago. It's a fine machine, a true sports tourer. I'll be riding it to the Oregon national in June.

[LowRyter]

on the related question of ("o" ring) chain maintenance here is my two cents.

1.  Clean the chain with rag and kerosene.

2.  Spray with chain wax or lube if you like the smell.

3.  Inspect for adjustment at the tightest spot in the chain.  Don't over adjust.  More chains have been ruined over adjustment (too tight) than neglect.

4.  Chain should last on average of 15k miles when you replace sprockets (half that if you don't repalce the sprockets regardless how the sprockets "look").  It's not unusual to get 20k.

[Nic in Western NYS]

Chain lube techniques and beliefs can lead to threads similar to those debating oil preferences.

[huub]

i own a couple of ducati's ,they are dependable bikes.
i even used to run one as a daily transport ( doing 30.000 miles/year)
they dont tolerate abuse alike a guzzi will, and setting the valves on a ducati is a absolute pain.
i do all the spannering on the bikes myself , but the valves on a ducati is the worst job i can think of. 
in the end i gave up on using a ducati as daily transport and bought a guzzi le mans.

if you want to do just 1000 miles a year there is no problem , just go for it

[Old Jock]

Chain lube techniques and beliefs can lead to threads similar to those debating oil preferences.

 :1:

[mjptexas]

I have a 2015 821 Monster with a little over 5,000 miles on it.  One small problem with a sensor (fixed under warranty).  Arguably the best all-around street bike I've ever owned.